The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, has announced that Ankara has authorized its embassy in Abuja to issue visas directly to Nigerian business travelers without the need for prior clearance from Turkey. He described this development as a significant enhancement for economic cooperation between the two nations.
Poroy made this announcement during a courtesy visit to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in Abuja on Monday. Both parties expressed their commitment to establishing smoother travel channels and fostering stronger commercial ties.
Having arrived in Nigeria approximately six months ago and yet to formally present his letter of credence, Poroy emphasized that enhancing economic collaboration is central to Turkey’s engagement with Nigeria.
“As you rightly mentioned, economic aspects of our relations are maybe the most important part,” he stated, noting that the two countries are still “behind the potential” available to them.
He elaborated that under the new arrangement, the embassy is now empowered to issue visas to business travelers directly.
“At the embassy, we can give directly, under certain conditions, their visa,” he explained. “This is an important first step to facilitate people-to-people [and] businessman-to-businessman contact between the two countries.”
Additionally, Poroy revealed that Turkey is in the process of concluding internal procedures to open a Consulate-General in Lagos, which he described as another practical step toward deeper diplomatic and commercial engagement.
The ambassador expressed gratitude to the minister for the services and support afforded to Turkish nationals residing in Abuja, conveying optimism that his tenure would be “very nice and fruitful.”
In response, Wike welcomed the ambassador to the FCT and reiterated the administration’s commitment to expanding economic ties with Turkey, particularly with major commercial hubs like Istanbul.
“And we would like to, particularly in Istanbul, to see how we can partner with them to improve economic relations,” he remarked.
Wike assured that Abuja is dedicated to creating a conducive environment for legitimate businesses, including those operated by Turkish nationals.
“It is our intention to provide a free environment where citizens, without molestation, can carry out their businesses,” he stated.
The minister also commended Turkey for simplifying its visa process for Nigerians, highlighting that obtaining travel documents has historically been a source of frustration for residents and business travelers.
“Now that you have taken steps, we commend that, so businessmen who want to go to Turkey will not find it difficult,” he noted.
He assured Poroy that the FCT Administration would remain ready to support initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two parties.
Poroy was accompanied by Hakan Tok, Secretary at the Turkish Embassy.
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